Empire Bluff Engagement Photos | Nicole & Austin’s Sleeping Bear Dunes Session with Their Pup
There are just some couples you instantly click with—and Nicole and Austin are absolutely one of those couples. Their engagement session at Empire Bluff Trail in Empire, Michigan (right near Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City) was such a dream from start to finish. The overlook, the glowing Lake Michigan views, the peaceful hike—it’s seriously the perfect location for destination engagement photos. I’m so glad they made the trip from their sweet little hometown of Hillman, Michigan, because it ended up being one of the most fun and meaningful sessions ever.
We were joined by ShaeMarie Photography for some content creation, and the four (well, five!) of us had such a blast. Nicole and Austin brought their adorable pup, Lapua, who was not only fluffy and sweet but also so patient and such a good listener the whole time we took photos. It was the cutest thing.
Honestly, everything about this session just felt joyful and easy in the best way. Nicole and Austin were up for anything I asked—from running barefoot down the trail to lifting her up mid-spin—and they nailed it all with big smiles and total trust. You can just feel how much fun they have together, and how natural their love is.
During the session, I got to hear more of their story—and I was obsessed. These two have been together for eight years, ever since high school (cue all the heart eyes), and somewhere along the way, Austin surprised Nicole with a baby pig. Yes, a baby pig. And the best part? They still have him! Their love story is full of those sweet, sentimental details that make everything feel extra special.
Now, I truly can’t wait for their wedding day on October 4th. Spending time with them again, celebrating their next chapter, and documenting all the magic—I just know it’s going to be such a meaningful day.
Nicole and Austin, thank you for trusting me, for driving all this way, and for making this such a fun memory. I hope these photos always remind you of how beautiful this season of life is. And I hope Empire Bluff Trail becomes a spot you return to—maybe to pop a bottle of champagne on your anniversary, or just to soak in the views and remember the start of forever. 🥂
You two (and Lapua!) are amazing. I’m so thankful to be your photographer.
A quick selfie of all of us together after Nicole & Austin's session!
Austin spinning Nicole around on the boardwalk with Lake Michigan glowing behind them—one of the sweetest, most joy-filled moments from their engagement session at Empire Bluff Trail. The golden light, the breeze, the laughter… pure magic.
Content Creation: ShaeMarie Photography
Frequently Asked Questions About Empire Bluff Engagement Sessions
Where is Empire Bluff Trail located?
Empire Bluff Trail is located in Empire, Michigan, just outside of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and about 30 minutes from Traverse City. It’s a stunning, short hike with jaw-dropping views of Lake Michigan.
Is Empire Bluff a good spot for engagement photos?
Yes! It’s one of my favorite places in Northern Michigan for engagement sessions. The overlook is breathtaking, the trail is peaceful, and the golden hour lighting is next-level. It’s perfect if you want something adventurous, romantic, and a little epic.
Do we need to hike a lot?
Not really! The trail is about 1.5 miles round trip with a slight incline. Totally manageable—even with a dog, like Nicole and Austin brought! I always recommend comfy shoes for the walk up, and we can switch to your cute outfit shoes once we reach the overlook.
Can we bring our dog to the session?
Yes! Lapua was such a sweet addition to Nicole and Austin’s session. Dogs are allowed on-leash at Empire Bluff, and I’m always happy to include them in your photos—they’re family, after all!
What should we wear for an engagement session here?
Soft neutrals or earth tones always photograph beautifully against the lake and dune backdrop. If you're not sure what to wear, check out my Engagement Session Style Guide for tips on outfits, accessories, and how to look and feel your best.
When is the best time of year to shoot here?
Late spring through early fall is ideal. Summer gives us warm golden light and clear skies, while fall offers beautiful color without too much wind off the lake. I always recommend shooting close to sunset for the best light.
Can we book you for both engagement and wedding photography?
Absolutely—and I love when couples do! Like Nicole and Austin, many of my couples book a full wedding experience, which helps us build that trust and connection so your wedding day photos feel even more natural and effortless.
Want to see what a full wedding gallery looks like? Take a peek at Wyatt & Alicia’s wedding day at Blue Sky Barn—it was the most joyful celebration!
